Description
Common names
Ruby Saltbush, Barrier Saltbush, Plum Puddings
Scientific names
Enchylaena tomentosa
Family
Chenopodiaceae.
Genus
Enchylaena.
Presence in Australia
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, NT, WA.
Habitat
Grows in a wide range of soil types. Most often found in well drained sandy soils.
Habit
A sub-shrub (that is, a low-growing, semi-woody plant) with procumbent or ascending pubescent, trailing branches which may grow to 1 m long. A height of 1 m is occasionally attained, however, plants are often less than half this size and some forms are prostrate.
Characteristics
The berries are edible and the plant provides useful sheep-feed in dry periods. It is an important food source for many bush birds and invertebrates including Parrots, honeyeaters,
wattlebirds.
Flowering
Mainly Dec-May.
Propagation
The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings. Should germinate in 1-4 weeks.